I responded to an Instagram post today about AI. Here’s my stance on it. I don’t use AI in my writing at all. As I stated in the post, I find it to be lazy and disgraceful to call yourself an author while using AI to write your books. That’s just me- I’ve been blessed to create for a long time- traditionally and independently. I’ve written while working a full-time job, two full-time jobs when you count being a mom. Three full-time jobs when you count writing traditionally (that means on contract) while obtaining a Master’s degree. Writing is a labor of love, and I am so blessed to have that ability.
In my response to that post, I also mentioned being an Academic Librarian. A working knowledge of AI in my profession is now vital in discussions with my students. I cringe when I hear about students using AI to write their papers. I make a point of highlighting the risks of using the technology at their fingertips for this purpose.
I don’t shy away from the fact that I have used Generative AI for several of my book covers. I’m a writer, not an artist, and this usage is always noted on the copyright pages of all my work. Personally, I enjoy seeing my covers and characters come to life the way I imagine them. Gen AI allows me to present a cover I can be proud of when I don’t have it in my budget to pay a cover artist. The work of Cover Artists (Human Cover Artists) is incomparable, and that work is worth every penny.
My personal issue/problem/disgust/etc with AI is wholly related to writing. To create worlds, situations, characters from a mind other than your own… just don’t do it. Have more respect for your talent. Believe in it, and it won’t let you down.
AlTonya Washington
